Winter Spine
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Montane Winter Spine
The Montane Winter Spine is a nonstop, 268 mile race along the Pennine Way that runs from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. Entrants have a time limit of 156 hours to complete the route.
The course crosses the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland National Park, sections of Hadrian's Wall and the Cheviots. Total ascent is listed as 10,732 metres with total descent of 10,941 metres. The route passes through remote, upland and mountainous terrain and typically exposes runners to severe winter weather including deep snow, strong winds and heavy rain. Daytime temperatures in January are given as 0°C to 10°C and night temperatures as -10°C to 2°C; daylight hours in January are approximately eight hours.
Main checkpoints along the route include Birchcliffe, Hawes, Hardraw, Langdon Beck, Alston and Bellingham. Checkpoint services include hot meals, hot and cold drinks, sleeping areas, toilets and showers at some locations, a professional medical crew, resupply bag handling and weather updates. The race is described as unsupported, though cafes and pubs on the route may be used; organised pacing or private follow vehicles are not permitted.
Entry criteria require participants to be aged 21 or over and to demonstrate relevant endurance and navigation experience. Race fees total £1,345 with a deposit option of £600 and a remaining balance due 100 days before the event. Places available are limited to 150. A race information pack and kit list are provided by the organiser. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
